Charcoal is often overlooked as a cleaning tool due to its dark and powdery nature, which may seem messy. However, activated charcoal is a powerful and natural cleaning agent. Evie Graham, a professional cleaner and founder of Waste Direct, believes that activated charcoal is underrated and is her go-to solution for tough cleaning jobs. Activated charcoal differs from regular charcoal as it has been processed to be more porous and absorbent, making it effective at trapping toxins, odors, oils, and moisture.
This unique property has made activated charcoal popular for cleaning, beauty products, and various health treatments. Expert-approved ideas for using activated charcoal in your home include freshening up smelly spaces and removing grease from kitchen surfaces. It is excellent for eliminating odors and absorbing toxins, making it ideal for areas with poor ventilation.
In the kitchen, activated charcoal can easily remove grease buildup from stovetops, range hoods, and countertops. By creating a paste with water and charcoal powder and applying it to the greasy surface, you can effectively clean and rinse away the grease. Additionally, activated charcoal can purify drinking water by absorbing contaminants and chemicals present in tap water, improving its taste and safety. It can be used to make a homemade filter by placing activated charcoal powder in a filtration system.
To use activated charcoal for water filtration, first place it in a porous item like a coffee filter or cloth. Next, slowly pour water over the charcoal into a pitcher, allowing it to filter out impurities. Activated charcoal sticks can also be placed in reusable water bottles for continuous filtration while on the go.
To reduce moisture in damp spaces, activated charcoal’s porous nature can help absorb excess moisture from the air. In small areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or under sinks, place sachets of activated charcoal to target damp spots. Replace the sachets every few months for optimal effectiveness. While this method is not a permanent solution for humidity issues, it can serve as a temporary fix while developing a long-term strategy.
Activated charcoal is a versatile cleaning agent for bathrooms, aiding in deodorizing and removing limescale. Mixing charcoal powder with a small amount of water can help clean glass surfaces, such as shower doors. Additionally, activated charcoal can be incorporated into beauty routines with applications like shower filters, face masks, and toothpaste.
